Early-Bird Registration EndsSept. 17 for Bench-Bar at Borgata

You have just until Friday, Sept. 17 to register for the 2010 Bench-Bar & Annual Conference and receive the early-bird discount. This year's conference will be held Oct. 15 and 16 at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J...READ MORE

Join the Philadelphia Bar Association Academy for an evening of operatic inspiration and learn the essential elements of opera appreciation at this unique wine-and-cheese event on Thursday, Sept. 23 at the Ethical Society of Philadelphia...READ MORE

Catch Union Action in Private Block of Seats Sept. 25

Join your friends and colleagues in a private block of seats for Major League Soccer action on Saturday, Sept. 25 as the Philadelphia Union host Chivas USA at PPL Park in Chester at 4 p.m...READ MORE

Election Candidates Sought

The Philadelphia Bar Association has formed its Elections Committee. Offices for which candidates are being solicited are Vice Chancellor, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and five seats on the Board of Governors. Each Board seat carries a three-year term...READ MORE

Register for Bench-Bar and Annual Conference at Borgata

You have just until Friday, Sept. 17 to register for the 2010 Bench-Bar & Annual Conference and receive the early-bird discount. This year's conference will be held Oct. 15 and 16 at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.

Fourteen CLE programs in a variety of practice areas are being planned for the Bench-Bar and Annual Conference. The CLE programs, in which attendees can earn up to eight hours of credit (including the opportunity to earn two ethics credits), will feature judges and some of the city's most well-known practitioners, who will use their expertise and experience to enlighten attendees.

A State of the Court Presentation will also be offered for CLE credit as the closing program on Saturday, Oct. 16. Vice Chancellor John E. Savoth and Board of Governors Vice Chair Regina M. Foley are co-chairs of the 2010 conference.

Full-conference admission is $349 for members and $399 for non-members, if reserved by the early bird deadline of Friday, Sept. 17. For members of the Young Lawyers Division and government and public interest attorneys, admission is only $199. Visit philadelphiabar.org for a complete registration form and pricing guide.

Hotel reservations must be made separately by calling the Borgata directly at 1-866-692-6742. Guests must reference the Philadelphia Bar Association to receive the special rate. Discounted rooms are available from Thursday, Oct. 14 through Saturday, Oct. 16. if booked by Friday, Sept. 17.

Offices for which candidates are being solicited are Vice Chancellor, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and five seats on the Board of Governors. Each Board seat carries a three-year term.

Association members may become candidates for any of these offices by filing with the Secretary, at least 60 days prior to the Dec. 7, 2010 Annual Meeting, nominations in writing which, for candidates of the Board, must be signed by at least 25 members who are entitled to vote; for candidates for Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer, shall be signed by at least 35 members who are entitled to vote; and for candidates for Vice Chancellor, shall be signed by at least 100 members who are entitled to vote.

Individuals who wish to run for any of the above named offices should contact Staff Counsel Brian Sims at bsims@philabar.org for additional information. Signatures, along with a resume, and written authorization should be submitted to Association Secretary Kathleen Wilkinson, c/o Brian Sims, Philadelphia Bar Association, 1101 Market St., 11th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, no later than 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 7.

Cost Effectively Conducting Legal Research Sept. 16

The Law Practice Management Committee will present "Cost Effectively Conducting Legal Research," a program reviewing the best ways to retrieve the information you need from Internet search engines and featuring Jenkins Law Library education services manager Dan Giancaterino on Thursday, Sept. 16 at 12 p.m.

Even though social networking sites such as Facebook are all the rage, search is still the Internet's killer app. Google, Microsoft's Bing, and others offer useful but poorly advertised features that let you organize your results, filter them by time and location, and get the correct answer instead of a list of 10 blue links. We'll also cover additional sources for desired content such as cases, law review articles, books, articles, images and more.

The program will be held in the 10th floor Board Room of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. Click here to register. The event is free; lunch is available for $8.

Meet the Legal Blawgers Sept. 16

The Bar-News Media Committee will present "Meet the Legal Blawgers: An Insiders' Perspective on Connecting with the Legal Blogosphere" on Thursday, Sept. 16.

The program begins at 12 p.m. in the 11th floor Conference Center of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. Lunch is available for $8. Click here to register.

Social Security Disability Benefits Planning Session

The Social Security Disability Benefits Committee will hold a planning and review session on Friday, Sept. 17.

The committee will discuss potential speakers, electronic folder access, district office performance, ODAR mailing issues and other issues germane to SSDI-SSI practice. The meeting begins at 12 p.m. in the 11th floor Conference Center of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. Lunch is available for $8. Click here to register.

YLD 2010 Photo Contest: "Eyes on the Environment"

The Young Lawyers Division welcomes submissions from all members of the Bar Association for "Eyes on the Environment," a summer photography contest in which the winner and runner-up will receive $200 and $100 gift certificates, respectively, to Ruth's Chris Steak House as well as have their images featured in The Philadelphia Lawyer, the Association's quarterly magazine.

Entrants are asked to consider the following: "As you embark on summer vacations or enjoy the remainder of the season here in Philadelphia, the Young Lawyers Division asks you to capture particularly compelling images of environmental awareness and natural conservation. What did you witness during your travels that showcases nature's untouched beauty? What efforts did you see toward preserving it?"

One submission per entrant can be e-mailed to mpetitti@philabar.org or tplmag@philabar.org in JPG format. A professional panel of judges will select the winner. The deadline for entries is Monday, Sept. 20. Stay tuned for more details.

YLD Election Information Session Sept. 20

The Young Lawyers Division is holding an information session for anyone interested in learning more about the YLD or running in the YLD election on Monday, Sept. 20 at 12 p.m. in the 11th Floor Conference Center of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St.

Antitrust Committee CLE on Patent Hold Ups Sept. 21

The Antitrust Committee will present the CLE program "Patent Hold Up: When Does the Abuse of a Private Standard Setting Process Amount to Actionable Conduct Under Section 2 of the Sherman Act or Deception Under Section 5 of the FTC Act?" on Tuesday, Sept. 21.

Panelists are Thomas J. Lang and Dr. Lauren Stiroh. The moderator is Steven E. Bizar. The program begins at 12:30 p.m. at The CLE Conference Center on the 10th floor of the Wanamaker Building, Market and Juniper streets. Registration and lunch begin at 12 p.m. Click here to register.

Risks Facing Directors, Officers CLE Sept. 21

The Insurance Law Committee and Securities Regulation Committee will present the CLE program "Straight Talk About the Risks Facing Directors & Officers" on Tuesday, Sept. 21.

Directors and officers of public companies face many substantial risks and not just the internal risk of their companies' success or failure in the market. Every year, hundreds of directors and officers are sued, most notably in securities fraud class actions filed by professional plaintiffs firms. Directors and officers also can find themselves involved in various types of government investigations, most notably investigations conducted by the Securities and Exchange Commission staff. This panel will examine current risks facing directors and officers. The program will be moderated by Heather Fritts with panelists Lawrence Fine, senior vice president/chief technical officer of financial lines claims, Chartis and David Laigaie of Dilworth Paxson LLP.

The program begins at 12:30 p.m. at The CLE Conference Center on the 10th floor of the Wanamaker Building, Market and Juniper streets. Lunch and registration begin at 12 p.m. Click here to register.

Mass Tort Litigation CLE Program Sept. 22

The Pennsylvania Bar Institute will present the CLE program Mass Tort Litigation on Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 9 a.m., which will will address timely issues facing lawyers in the current climate of mass tort litigation.

You'll hear about the use of class claims in mass tort cases, issues regarding use of questionnaires and notice, and methodology for estimating the value of mass tort claims. Our panel will also discuss how to tactically and ethically plan your litigation, tackle problems presented by e-discovery, general management of your mass tort case, and many other relevant and useful topics. You will not want to miss the wealth of practical information our diverse faculty will share.

The program will be held at The CLE Conference Center on the 10th floor of the Wanamaker Building, Market and Juniper streets. Six CLE credits are available, one of which may be applied to ethics. Click here to register.

Tax Aspects of Loan Restructurings Sept. 22

As the residential real estate market struggles to regain its balance, the commercial real estate market has only just begun to feel the effects of the economic downturn. Lenders around the country are faced with non-performing loans, borrowers unable to make payments, offers of deeds in lieu of foreclosure
and requests to modify the terms of loans. As incentive to lenders to allow borrowers to restructure their obligations, equity interests are increasingly being offered. These equity interests coupled with modified provisions can create tax liabilities for lenders and borrowers alike, where none existed traditionally.

This program will focus on cancellation of indebtedness and the exceptions to income recognition; impact on assets from application of exceptions to recognition; debt for equity exchanges in partnership and corporate situations; and loan modifications treated as exchanges giving rise to income

The program begins at 12 p.m. at The CLE Conference Center on the 10th floor of the Wanamaker Building, Market and Juniper streets. Registration and lunch begin at 11:30 a.m. Two substantive CLE credits are available, as well as 2 CPA credits. Click here to register.

Behind the Scenes of the Center City Opera Theater Sept. 23

Join the Philadelphia Bar Association Academy for an evening of operatic inspiration and learn the essential elements of opera appreciation at this unique wine-and-cheese event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23 at the Ethical Society of Philadelphia, 1906 Rittenhouse Square.

Center City Opera Theater General and Artistic Director Andrew M. Kurtz and other artists will provide a "look behind the lights" at the production of an opera, including costumes, sets, lighting, and of course, music. The opera featured will be Donizetti's L'Elisir D'Amore (The Elixir of Love), listed by Opera America as one of the 20 most-performed operas in North America. Now celebrating its 11th season, Center City Opera Theater has produced nearly three dozen operas.

YLD Networking Happy Hour Sept. 23

Join colleagues and friends at the next YLD Networking Happy Hour, co-hosted by the Criminal Justice Section, on Thursday, Sept. 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at McCormick & Schmick's, 1 S. Broad St.

The first 50 people to arrive will receive drink tickets. Appetizers and drink specials will be on hand. The event is sponsored by Love Court Reporting, Inc.

IBC to Introduce New Coverage in January 2011;Grandfathered Indemnity Coverage Continuation Confirmed

Effective with renewals that take place on Jan. 1, 2011, Independence Blue Cross (IBC) will no longer offer the current HMO, POS and PPO products under which groups with 50 or fewer employees are now insured. This will impact most Association members who have their coverage through IBC. Existing customers will not be able to renew their current plans. All insureds will have to select a new plan from IBC's new product line (Blue Solutions), which will include new HMO, POS and PPO options. At renewal, recommended option(s) will be provided to customers that are most like their current option(s). If a customer does not make a benefit election, IBC will automatically default the existing coverage(s) to the recommended option(s).

There will be a total of 25 different new options available to groups from firms that have less than 51 employees. The number of plan options which may be offered will be determined by the total number of employees that a firm has. All the new plans include those benefits mandated by recent Health Care Reform legislation including coverage for dependent children up to the age of 26.

In order to address your questions and concerns regarding these changes that have been mandated by IBC, the Association will be keeping you informed through various ways about the new products. You will receive ongoing additional information from USI Affinity, the Association's broker. By now, you should have received your first e-mail communication from USI Affinity announcing the coverage changes. In addition, early next week, IBC well be sending a letter directly to each insured outlining the changes and elimination of the old plans.

Your health insurance choice for 2011 will take more time and consideration as you examine the available options. On Tuesday, Sept. 28 at 8:30 a.m. at the Association offices, 11th Floor, 1101 Market St., the Association will hold an open meeting with representatives of USI to explain in detail the information that they have received, how it will impact the insureds and what the open enrollment process will entail for 2011 (click here to register). A free continental breakfast will be provided. The meeting is open to both members and non-members. Walk-ins are welcome.

Solo practitioners, actively practicing law and currently insured, will not lose coverage. Unless covered under grandfathered traditional indemnity plans, they will however, have to choose from the new Blue Solutions offerings.

On Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010 we were able to confirm that those members, including solo practitioners, covered under the grandfathered traditional indemnity plans will be able to continue that indemnity coverage for 2011. This will, however, be subject to the underwriting guidelines that impact the number of plans that can be offered depending on group size.

For members with questions about these changes, a special number has been set up for you to communicate directly with USI Affinity. You may call 1-800-265-2876 and press prompt #4.

At this time we are taking steps to educate our members about this development. No decisions about which new coverage you will pick has to be made at this point. Those decisions will have to be made once actual rates for each plan are made available by IBC, sometime during the end of October. However, because both the Association and USI Affinity recognize how important health care coverage is to both you and your employees, the Association in a coordinated effort with USI Affinity will be keeping you apprised of all developments as we learn about them.

In addition, further information about the new plan offerings is available directly from Blue Cross' website (click here to download).

Women in Politics Sept. 28

Former Congresswoman Marjorie Margolies, Philadelphia City Counciwoman Marian B. Tasco, Pennsylvania Superior Court Judge Anne Lazarus and Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judges Sheila Woods-Skipper and Lillian Harris Ransom will be panelists at the Tuesday, Sept. 28 meeting of the Women in the Profession Committee "Women in Politics."

The program begins at 12 p.m. in the 11th floor Conference Center of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. Lunch is available for $8. Click here to register.

Doing Business in China Sept. 28

Speakers from private industry who are doing business with China will discuss the tremendous opportunities in what the Chinese call The Middle Kingdom at the Tuesday, Sept. 28 meeting of the International Business Initiative Committee.

Jack Wen, president of Sino-Sun Biotechnology Ltd., Michael Kwong, president of An Xing Group USA, Inc., and Richard Li, of Liberty Real Estate Associates, LLC, will provide practical counsel from the perspective of a company in today's challenging business climate on how to be successful in the China market. We will have discussions about the steps the Initiative can take to make this region more of a site for international business, especially with China.

The meeting begins at 12 p.m. in the 11th floor Committee Room South of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. Lunch is available for $8. Click here to register.

Confidential Informants CLE Sept. 28

The Criminal Justice Section will present the CLE program "Confidential Informants: Problems, Issues and Strategies" on Tuesday, Sept. 28.

You will learn about the federal regulations, as well as the local Philadelphia Police Department directives related to confidential informants, giving you a background with which to challenge, impeach and weaken the impact of evidence obtained through informants. Receive sample motions to compel the identification of confidential informants, as well as learn how courts are responding to such motions in Philadelphia.

Check in and lunch begin at 11:15 a.m. at The CLE Conference Center on the 10th floor of the Wanamaker Building, Market and Juniper streets. This program has been approved by the Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education Board for 3 hours of CLE credit in substantive law and 1 hour in ethics. Click here to register.

Trends and Issues in Wage, Hour Litigation Sept. 29

The Labor and Employment Law Committee will present "Trends and Issues in Wage and Hour Litigation" at its Wednesday, Sept. 29 meeting.

The meeting begins at 12 p.m. in the 10th floor Board Room of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. Lunch is available for $8. Click here to RSVP.

Bar Foundation Award Nominees Sought

The Philadelphia Bar Foundation is seeking nominations for Philadelphia Bar Foundation Award which is given to a public interest attorney for excellence of service to the community. A $2,500 award is presented each year to an attorney who is providing direct legal services to the poor and the underprivileged in Philadelphia.

The National Economic Outlook: A YLD 20/20 Program Oct. 5

Dr. Jason Faberman, a senior economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, will present a national economic outlook with a review of the region at a Young Lawyers Division 20/20 program on Tuesday, Oct. 5.

The program begins at 12 p.m. in the 11th floor Conference Center of Bar Association headquarters, 1101 Market St. The program is free to attend. Lunch can purchased for $8. Click here to register.

Dr. Faberman joined the Regional and Microeconomics Section of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia's Research Department in 2007. Prior to that, he spent four years as a Research Economist with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in Washington, DC. His research interests focus on the labor market, with an emphasis on the employment behavior of individual businesses and workers and its implications at the macro level, micro level, and across different geographic areas. He received his Ph.D. and M.S. from the University of Maryland, College Park and his B.A. and B.S. from Lehigh University.

Marciarose Shestack to be Honored at Brandeis Event

Broadcast pioneer Marciarose Shestack, who co-anchored the country's first Eyewitness News program at KYW-TV (CBS 3) in 1965, will be honored by the Louis D. Brandeis Law Society at "Media Night: Jewish Perspectives on the First Amendment" on Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 5:30 p.m. in the Mayor's Reception Room in City Hall.

The event will showcase well-known local and national media personalities in a lively panel discussion touching on major free speech issues. Attendees will receive one hour of substantive CLE credit.

The discussion will be moderated by Sayde J. Ladov, immediate-past Chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association, and will include Philadelphia Daily News columnist Stu Bykofsky; WIP radio host Rob Charry; freelance writer and Jewish Exponent reporter Sally Friedman; former Daily News reporter Ron Goldwyn; ESPN producer David Picker; former Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Steve Seplow and Shestack, who was the first woman to ever anchor a prime time TV news broadcast.

The panel will be followed by a 6:30 PM cocktail buffet in Conversation Hall by Foodarama Kosher Caterers, including butlered hot hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $37.50 for Brandeis Society members and $45 for non-members. Those joining the Brandeis Society on site will be able to take advantage of the discounted rate.

All members of the Bench and Bar are invited and encouraged to attend. Send checks payable to the Louis D. Brandeis Law Society to Tina Velez c/o Blank Rome LLP, One Logan Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103 or call 215.569.5500 ext. 4032 for more information.

The Louis D. Brandeis Law Society, the Jewish law society, is dedicated to advancing and enriching the personal and professional interests of our members of the Bench and Bar. It promotes opportunities for leadership development, social interaction, education and community service.

Catch Union Action in Private Block of Seats Sept. 25

Join your friends and colleagues in a private block of seats for Major League Soccer action on Saturday, Sept. 25 as the Philadelphia Union host Chivas USA at PPL Park in Chester at 4 p.m.

This event is also for season ticket holders. Already have tickets? Meet at on the Deck inside PPL Park up until 15 minutes before kickoff to gather with other Bar members.

To purchase tickets, visit philadelphiaunion.com/promo and use the code philabar. Tickets are $30 plus tax. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Thursday, Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Jason Freedman, the Union's ticket sales manager at 610-497-6304 or via e-mail at jfreedman@philadelphiaunion.com.

Get Discounted Tickets to "Denial"

Bar Association members can purchase discounted tickets for the play "Denial," being performed at the Second Stage at the Adrienne, 2030 Sansom St. To receive the discount, Bar Association members should mention the Philadelphia Bar Association Academy.

In his 1995 play "Denial," Peter Sagal presents the story of a Jewish civil rights attorney who is asked by the ACLU to defend the rights of a Holocaust denier whose papers have been seized by the federal government for promoting violence. Abby Gersten's "religion" is the law, but her client tests her faith as she learns that justice has its own price. "Denial" explores the dilemma faced by Holocaust survivors and others who seek to make sure the world never for gets when confronted with those who would prove that what they experienced never occurred, and is also an engrossing legal drama that examines the moral and ethical dilemmas inherent in the First Amendment.

Tell Us About Your Healthy Lifestyle

Everyone knows the pressure of working as an attorney. And that can take a toll on a lawyer's health and well-being. Have you or one of your colleagues overcome a health issue? Or do you know someone who has re-dedicated him or herself to living a healthy, well-balanced life?

We're looking for lawyers who have turned their lives around for a feature for The Philadelphia Lawyer magazine. We want to hear your success stories and how you did it. Tell your tale and inspire someone to get healthy. Contact us at tplmag@philabar.org.

Notice to Potential Judicial Candidates

The Commission on Judicial Selection and Retention of the Philadelphia Bar Association evaluates the qualifications of persons seeking appointment or election to the Philadelphia Common Pleas and Municipal Courts. Individuals who wish to be considered for appointment or who are considering filing for the 2011 primary election as judicial candidates should contact the Commission on Judicial Selection & Retention c/o Charles J. Klitsch, Esq., the Bar Association's Director of Public and Legal Services, to obtain a Judicial Evaluation Questionnaire, the Commission's Guidelines for Evaluation of Attorney and Judge Candidates and Bylaws of the Philadelphia Bar Association. In order to ensure that each candidate receives a full and fair evaluation, the completed questionnaire must be returned by Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010 to "Judicial Commission" Philadelphia Bar Association, 1101 Market Street, 11th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2911. Also, candidates who have previously been evaluated by the Commission are invited to contact the Association to determine whether their ratings are current by calling Mr. Klitsch at (215) 238-6326.

Individuals are reminded that under the Commission's Guidelines, any candidates who do not participate in the Commission's evaluation process will receive "Not Recommended" ratings if they continue to pursue either appointment or election.

Pro Bono Road Shows Available Oct. 18-22

To celebrate National Pro Bono Week in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Bar Association's Delivery of Legal Services Committee is pleased to offer interactive "Road Shows" about the pro bono opportunities available in Philadelphia.

All law firms and corporations are invited to participate. Selected public interest legal services agencies will present a 30-minute workshop about how to get involved in pro bono activities that can help our community and help your career.

Road Shows are available at 8:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. Monday through Friday, Oct. 18 through Oct. 22 at your law offices. Participating agencies include the Homeless Advocacy Project, Legal Clinic for the Disabled, Philadelphia VIP, SeniorLAW Center and Support Center for Child Advocates.

To host a Road Show, contact Jodi Schatz, Co-Chair, Philadelphia National Pro Bono Week Celebration at jschatz@advokid.org or call 267-546-9228. Please include your preferred Road Show date and time when registering.

Public Interest Training Programs Set

The Homeless Advocacy Project will be present "Ethical Considerations in Representing Homeless Clients" on Tuesday, Sept. 21. The program, presented by HAP Managing Attorney Michele Levy and HAP staff attorney Margaret Retz will be held at the offices of Dilworth Paxson LLP, 1500 Market St. from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Doors open at 8 a.m. The course is open to current and prospective volunteers and attendees are eligible to receive 1 ethics CLE credit. There is no charge for attending though attendees are expected to volunteer with HAP. For more information or to RSVP by Thursday, Sept. 16, please contact Cary E. Moritz at cmoritz@philalegal.org or call 215-523-9587.

 Philadelphia VIP will present a training session on Friday, Sept. 24, on how to transfer title of a property into a client's name through the filing of a Quiet Title action. The program covers the legal grounds, procedures, and forms for bringing a Quiet Title Action, with an emphasis on the issues that low-income clients frequently encounter in obtaining title to a property. The CLE training will be held from 12 to 2 p.m. at Fox Rothschild LLP, 2000 Market St. Each attorney who attends and accepts a VIP pro bono case within six months of the training will earn two substantive CLE credits. Lunch is provided. Register at phillyvip@phillyvip.org or by calling 215-523-9550.

 Philadelphia VIP will host Corporate Pro Bono Day on Tuesday Oct. 5, an event that will provide microentrepreneurs the opportunity to discuss immediate and ongoing legal matters with corporate counsel from various Philadelphia-area businesses at no cost. Prior to the counseling sessions, experienced trainers will provide a Continuing Legal Education seminar for the corporate counsel on the essential legal needs of small businesses. The event location and exact time are TBD. A light dinner will be provided. This event is limited to corporate counsel. Register at jvolunteer@phillyvip.org or by calling 215-523-9567.

The Support Center for Child Advocates invites you to participate in the training "How to Handle a Child Abuse Case" on Tuesday, Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The CLE Conference Center on the 10th floor of the Wanamaker Building. Earn 6 CLE credits while gaining a robust understanding of the Juvenile Act, the Child Protective Service Law, and the dynamics of child abuse, among other topics. Become a volunteer attorney for Philadelphia's abused and neglected kids. Make a difference in the life of a child victim. For more information, contact Jodi Schatz, pro bono coordinator and intake attorney, at jschatz@advokid.org. To register, visit pbi.org.

 Philadelphia VIP will sponsor its annual Pro Bono Opportunities Day on Wednesday, Oct. 27. This year's event spotlights VIP's work with families and children. Training sessions will focus on areas of law critical to Philadelphia families: guardianship, custody, and protection from abuse. From first-year associates new to the practice of law, to experienced practitioners new to pro bono, all attorneys to are invited to learn how to use their legal experience to support Philadelphia's low-income families. The event will be held at Montgomery, McCracken, Walker & Rhoads, LLP, 123 S. Broad St., 28th Floor, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Each attorney who attends and accepts a VIP pro bono case within six months of the training will earn two substantive CLE credits. Register at phillyvip@phillyvip.org or by calling 215- 523-9550.

 Philadelphia VIP will host a CLE training program on how to handle a case in the Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Project, the mandatory negotiation program operated by the First Judicial District. The event will be held Tuesday, Nov. 9 at Comcast, One Comcast Center, 45th floor. The CLE training program will be held from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Volunteers will receive one free CLE credit for each hour of course work attended (a total of three free CLE credits are available) in exchange for representing two different clients at one or more mortgage foreclosure conciliation conferences on a continuing basis until the attempted negotiation is resolved, or in exchange for volunteering as an on-call attorney at three different conciliation conference half-day sessions. Volunteer work must be completed within six months of the training program. Register at phillyvip@phillyvip.org or by calling 215- 523-9550.

 Philadelphia VIP will host a CLE training program on ethics on Friday, Dec. 3 from 12 to 2:15 p.m. Presented in a lively and interactive format, this training includes a discussion of Rule 6.1: Pro Bono Publico Service, the role of training in ethical representation, malpractice insurance, models for pro bono participation, and ethical considerations for volunteer attorneys. Special considerations in the representation of low-income clients will also be explored. The event will be held at Ballard Spahr LLP, 1735 Market St., 51st Floor. Each attorney who attends and accepts a VIP pro bono case within six months of the training will earn two substantive CLE credits. Register at phillyvip@phillyvip.org or by calling 215-523-9550.

HIAS and Council Annual Luncheon Sept. 28

HIAS and Council hosts Annual Luncheon Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 28 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at 2100 Arch St. The luncheon will feature a panel discussion of immigrant youth on the challenges they face and the successes they hope to enjoy in America.

At the luncheon, HIAS and Council will also honor legal advocates, including: Frank Cervone, Regan Cooper, Gilda Jean Louis, Valentine Brown, Jessica Choi, Mary Clark, Cherylle Corpuz, and others. For more information or to register, please contact Loy Omphommasack at 215-832-0905 or via e-mail at loy@hiaspa.org.

Philbrook Awards Reception Sept. 28 at Rutgers Camden

The 25th Annual Mary Philbrook Awards Reception will be held Tuesday, Sept. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Rutgers University School of Law, Camden Campus Center, 326 Penn St., Camden.

This year, the Mary Philbrook Public Interest Award will be presented to Drewry Nash Fennell, executive director of the Delaware Criminal Justice Council, and formerly executive director of the Delaware ACLU. Individual tickets are $50. For more information contact Terry McCuen at mccuen@camden.rutgers.edu.

PILCOP Stevens Award Event Sept. 30

The Public Interest Law Center's Thaddeus Stevens Award Cocktail and Dinner Reception will be held Thursday, Sept. 30 at the Downtown Club, 6th and Chestnut streets.

Gov. Edward G. Rendell (pending schedule), Secretary of Policy & Planning Donna Cooper, and Judge Doris A. Smith-Ribner will be honored with The Thaddeus Stevens Award in recognition of their extraordinary work to advance the quality of public education in our region.

Cocktails begin at 5 p.m. with dinner and the award presentation at 6:30 p.m. Online registration and more details are available by clicking here or calling 267-546-1303.

CLS Justice For All 5K Oct. 10

Community Legal Services will hold its inaugural 5K run/walk fundraiser, the Justice For All 5K, on Sunday, Oct. 10 at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park at 8:30 a.m.

"Killing Time" Author Talk, Book Signing Sept. 21

Join Gordon Cooney Jr. and Michael Banks, both attorneys at Morgan Lewis, and John Hollway, the author of "Killing Time," a novel about Cooney and Banks' incredible work to prove the innocence of a man who had spent 18 years on death row just days before his scheduled execution, for a talk and book signing presented by The Philadelphia Business Journal on Tuesday, Sept. 21 from 7:45-9:15 a.m. at Morton's The Steakhouse.

The cost for the program varies. More details, as well as registration information, can be found here.

For more on Cooney and Banks' amazing story, of which the rights have been optioned to Matt Damon and Ben Affleck to produce and star in a film adaption, click here. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Wolf at jenniferwolf@bizjournals.com or 215-238-5106.

Future of Music Coalition Policy Summit Oct. 3-5

The Future of Music Coalition will hold its 10th Annual Policy Summit at Gerogetown University in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 3-5. The conference unites attorneys, policy makers, academics, industry professionals and musicians to discuss current issues effecting the music, technology and policy landscape.

The Second Mile Celebration of Excellence Oct. 13

Former Philadelphia District Attorney Lynne Abraham will be honored at the Celebration of Excellence Awards Banquet presented by The Second Mile on Wednesday, Oct. 13 at the Union League beginning at 6 p.m. Phil Martelli, the men's basketball coach at St. Joseph's University, will also be honored at the event, which includes a reception, followed by dinner and the ceremony. Tickets are $150 each and can be purchased here. Sponsorships are also available.

Now with the law firm of Archer & Greiner, P.C., Abraham served as Philadelphia's first woman district attorney for 18 years where she founded Urban Genesis Inc. to promote community leadership and provide grants to fund projects to improve neighborhoods and help the needy.

The Second Mile was founded in 1977 in State College, Pa., and is a statewide non-profit organization for children who need additional support and who would benefit from positive human contact. The organization plans, organizes, and offers activities and programs for children - and adults who work with them - to promote self-confidence as well as physical, academic, and personal success.

Proceeds from this Celebration will support The Second Mile's programs that touch the lives of more than 100,000 Pennsylvania children annually. In addition, the Celebration provides a forum to recognize individuals who are positive role models in their achievement of excellence both nationally and within their local communities.

Bar Academy Suggestions Sought

The Philadelphia Bar Association Academy is seeking your suggestions for future programs. The Academy is a new civic and cultural education series for members of the Philadelphia Bar Association launched earlier this year by Chancellor Scott F. Cooper and chaired by Hon. A. Michael Snyder.

Academy programs enable members to connect with many of the city's most vibrant institutions through exclusive, behind-the-scenes access and business development opportunities. Programs so far have included a lunch with executives of the Philadelphia Union, the region's newest professional sports franchise; an inside look at Philadelphia's top-rated all-news station, KYW Newsradio 1060; and a taste and pastry kitchen tour of the city's premier fine-dining restaurant, Le Bec-Fin.

All programs are presented at a nominal cost to cover some portion of food, beverage, etc. To send program suggestions, please e-mail Tracey McCloskey at tmccloskey@philabar.org.

New Mobile Application Drives Legal Directory Sales

Legal Directory buyers are finding that a new-for-2010 mobile application, tailored for your BlackBerry, is making information easier and faster to find.

The quick-search for lawyers and law firms and the click-and-call or click-and-e-mail features are terrifically useful. This is a great tool
to make attorneys and support staff more productive.

The Directory database includes the most up-to-date listings of 19,000+ Philadelphia-area lawyers and law firms. Every purchase comes with three components: the online Directory, mobile access and the print directory, which is jammed with useful information like court rules, lists of government agency lawyers, judges' phone numbers and more.

Copies are going fast and will soon be sold out. The next edition will not be published until Spring 2011. You can buy The Legal Directory three ways: click here to visit thelegaldirectory.org to place your order online; e-mail legaldirectory@mediatwo.com to request an order form; or call 443-909-7843 to request an order form.

You have received this message because you are listed with the Philadelphia Bar Association as a subscriber to the Bar Reporter Online. This message may contain commercial content. If you wish to add, modify or delete a Bar Reporter Online subscription, either send an e-mail to philadelphiabar@philabar.org, or go to listserve.philabar.org/mailman/listinfo/bro
Philadelphia Bar Association, 1101 Market St., 11th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-238-6300.